What is a Development Application [DA] & when do I need one?

 

Development Application [DA] is a formal request submitted to the relevant council. It is required when you want to get council approval of a specific Design of a development. it required for building new buildings such as new dwellings, duplex, townhouses, apartments, or more complex buildings. but it is not required for minor renovation or construction work, such as installing air-conditioning units, building balconies, decks, patios, pergolas, terraces, and verandahs, cabanas, cubby houses, ferneries, garden sheds, gazebos and greenhouses, carports, driveways, fences, and minor alterations. you don't need council approval for these exempt development, but you need to consider some rules that regulate these items

A Development Application [DA] usually include  ;

- all architectural design details and specifications

- Statement of environmental effects 

- BASIX certificate

- Hydraulic engineer plans.

Sometimes the land is in hazardous areas, such as flood or bushfire areas. In this case, you need different design solutions and detailed reports to indicate how the design deals with the hazard and supports your design. 

Once DA approval is granted, you need CC approval from the council to start building.